Is Gen Y too needy?

There’s no doubt that Gen Y is driven by affirmation. It isn’t enough that in school we get comments and grades on all of our papers, but teachers had to find extra ways to make us stand out. When I was in third grade my class did a monthly recognition award – and everyone got an award – not just the superstars. I think one year I got an award for ‘Best Question Asker’ – not exactly reward worthy.

So what does Gen Y do when the affirmation stops? When you get into a career in the midst of a recession with a tough manager who doesn’t fawn and beam at every project you do as if it were a Pulitzer Prize winning novel? When you don’t get a paper back that says ‘A’ on the top with positive comments and constructive criticism outlining the margin, encouraging you to work even harder. When, no matter how hard you think you’re working, because of this economy, there’s just no sign of a promotion anywhere out there.

This isn’t my first post about this subject. I think the reason I’m re-visiting this topic is because I’m approaching my one-year anniversary in my current position – I’ve always been an overachiever, and in my head, one year is the standard amount of time one should work a position before receiving some sort of promotion (so naturally I thought it would take me far less time!). I don’t want to blame it on the recession, but these days who doesn’t blame everything on the recession?

So what is the typical amount of time one works a first job before they are promoted? Do you think the economy has affected that time frame? Do you Gen Y-ers think lack of affirmation affects your motivation or caliber of work? Please share your feedback!

Promotions in a time of layoffs?

In school, you’re always moving forward. Every year you complete another grade level, and every year you are progressing. And that’s just the way it works, for the most part. One year = one step forward.

In the professional world, it’s a little different. Determining factors for whether or not someone gets a raise or a promotion can vary from industry, economic, company to personal. Maybe you get a promotion because the PR industry is booming and new business is expected to increase (though these days, it seems to be the opposite). Or maybe there is turnover at your workplace so by default, you’re promoted. How often does personal work ethic have a say?

In this economic climate, those who are employed say the same thing – “I’m just happy to have a job right now.” And of course we all should be – but how is this economy affecting the opportunity for career growth for young professionals in the PR/Advertising/Marketing industry?

I’ve been in my current position as Account Coordinator for about 8 months now. I’ve learned a lot, but I’m approaching that time where I’m ready for more. How is it possible, though, when you know your company is losing money, to ask for the next step up? Should you sacrifice your personal goals and settle for a position that you are no longer challenged in? What’s the balance between personal career growth and the growth of your company these days?

If anyone has had a success story of promotion in this economic climate, I’d love to hear ideas.